PMA in favor of USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program

Kathy Means, vice president of government relations and public affairs for Produce Marketing Association (PMA), has issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program proposed rule.

“PMA strongly supports the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program proposed rule. Providing children with access to fruits and vegetables in schools is essential to achieving the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables, according to the USDA’s 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Fruits and vegetables have consistently been one of the food groups to encourage Americans to eat more of by filling ‘half your plate.’ Placing produce in the classroom allows students to enjoy tasty treats and develop healthy dietary habits, making them consumers for life. It also can provide opportunities to close the farm to table food production knowledge gap.

“Also, the proposed rule is a step in the right direction to combat childhood obesity and aligns nicely with components of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign. PMA is committed to children’s health through education and collaborative efforts with Let’s Move to get more salad bars in schools. We look forward to supporting the USDA as it strives to make this proposed rule a reality for our nation’s children.”